Remember that giant TV cabinet that used to take seven burly men to move from one corner to another? Neither do we. LCD has blocked such memories from our short-attention span. Plasma may have introduced people to the flash, but LCD is what put flat panel HDTV onto the map and into so many of the homes out there.
LCD stands for liquid-crystal display -- and TVs aren't the only devices that use this type of technology. The iPod? LCD. Cell phones? LCD. Even many remote controls include an LCD screen. However, all of those teeny devices pale in comparison to the sometimes enormous and colorful screen of an LCD HDTV display.
LCD Geek Speak
Without getting too geeky, the concept behind LCD is sort of simple. An LCD has two polarized glass panels. One panel features an array of liquid crystal pixels, each typically composed of red, green and blue sub-pixels. The other panel is a polarized filter with no color component which controls the intensity of light passed through it. A light source behind the panel assembly provides illumination. In order to create a meaningful picture, electricity is applied to the polarizing filter to selectively block out or dim the light shining through each subpixel. If you need a fully black screen, the filter blocks all pixels. For full white, the filter is effectively wide open or off. For everything in between, individual subpixels are fully or partially blocked by the polarizing filter so that a wide range of color and gray scales can be reproduced.
What differentiates a traditional LCD TV from its LED TV cousins is really just the type of light source used. On LCD TVs, a series of skinny fluorescent tubes called CCFL (cold cathode fluorescent lamps) are placed behind the LCD panel to provide light. This placement of tubes behind the panel means that LCD TVs can be thin, particularly when compared to CRT or RPTV sets, but perhaps not quite as thin as LED TVs that use LED lights around the edge of the TV to provide the light source.
Thin is nice when trying to hang a TV on the wall or squeeze it into a tight spot. However, early LCD technology had its share of problems -- mainly, a little thing called the image quality. Early LCD TVs weren't particularly pretty, especially when compared to the pricey plasma displays of the time. Well, to be fair, LCD just wasn't that great when things were moving. Still pictures looked great but motion pictures were a bit blurry and black levels were never really that dark. Of course, unless you are watching a test pattern or a photo slide show, black levels and motion reproduction are kind of important. Fortunately, there have been some major advances in LCD technology to improve things.
Three of those major improvements lie in panel response times, contrast ratios and the refresh rates. Response time is the amount of time it takes an LCD's panel to go from full black to full white. It's measured in milliseconds. The lower the number, the happier you'll be. With contrast ratios, we're looking at the difference in overall brightness between a full black signal and full white. In this case, the higher number is better. Unfortunately there are no real industry standards for how manufacturers can present these numbers, so the values given have gotten pretty meaningless, particularly when you see "dynamic" contrast ratios (as opposed to "native" contrast ratios, which tend to be more realistic). So, while things have gotten better, we'd recommend taking manufacturers' specs with a huge grain of salt. The refresh rate stands for the number of times per second that the screen image is refreshed. We like this to be a higher number as this means the set will generally be better at reproducing moving images. It's measured in Hertz. Basic models have a 60Hz refresh rate, while some of the higher-end and 3D-ready models go as high as 240Hz.
Thanks to lower price points, LCD has given HDTV a nice boost, allowing more homeowners to buy bigger, brighter high resolution HDTVs. Now, LED technology is starting to branch out into its own sub-category within the LCD TV market. According to market research company iSuppli Corp., better refresh rates, images and LED technology will all give a bump to the LCD category this year. LED TV, as we mentioned earlier is basically an LCD TV with different backlighting. For the purposes of this guide, however, we are concentrating on traditional CCFL-lit LCD TVs. If you want to read more on LED-lit LCD TVs, please see our LED TV Buyers Guide.
LCD for Everyone!
One of the best things about LCD is that it does not discriminate. No matter what size room you have, there is an LCD out there for you. This year, manufacturers have LCD TVs as small as 19 inches. Of course, we love the big boys too; expect to see plenty of 60-inchers out there as well.
Want to see what other sizes and features are being offered on this year's LCDs? Keep reading to see what manufacturers are offering in the LCD category this year.
JVC isn't quite finished announcing LCDs for the year. The company says a few more entry-level items will be coming around May or June. For now, we are waiting on avaiability of the TeleDock LCDs that were first shown in January. Available in three sizes, this line is all new for 2010, offering an integrated iPod dock, iPhone support and a 120Hz refresh rate.
The iPod dock on each model is located at the base of the set, and flips down for use. Dock the portable to play back audio, video and photos or just charge it up for the next time you're on the go. If you want to play back your stuff on the big screen, it's easy to flip through hundreds of selections on-screen using the TV's remote, which features a circular keypad that's very reminiscent of the iPod's control wheel.
According to JVC, all iPod content should be suitable for these screens. If some of those YouTube videos have less-than-stellar quality, the TV can display it in a small screen mode. High-resolution video can be shown in nine aspect modes at full screen.
Other features for all three include a 1080p image, three HDMI inputs, one component input, two S-video inputs, PC input (D-sub) and an analog video output. At press time, JVC was not releasing pricing or exact release dates on any of the upcoming TeleDock HDTVs.
Aside from its many LEDs for 2010, LG is adding another five series of CCFL LCD HDTVs to its line this year. Each one includes calibration and image optimization tools, such as Intelligent Sensor and Picture Wizard, a 7-step calibration process for the best picture settings. Other standard features include Clear Voice II sound and A/V modes for movies, sports and games.
At the top of LG's LCD heap is the LD650 Series, which features 47- and 55-inch sizes. Both boast a full 1080p HD image, as well as TruMotion 240Hz, USB video, DLNA and wireless-ready technology. Each one also includes NetCast, which features on-screen, on-demand access to Netflix, VUDU, Skype, YouTube, and other entertainment services.
The LD550 Series has an almost identical feature set as the 650 Series, but drops the refresh rate down to 120Hz. Also, there are a few extra sizes to choose from.
The LD520 Series mimics the LD550 units, except for the omission of the Netcast service. If IPTV and internet content streaming are not that interesting to you, or you've already got that in your Blu-ray player, then these models are worth a look.
The LD450 Series is where LG offers full HD 1080p resolution at entry-level pricing. This means you're not going to get fancy features like NetCast or higher refresh rates, but you should still get solid performance and a nicely detailed image.
Last, but not least, the entry-level LD350 Series offers four smaller models, each with a 720p image and 60 Hz refresh rates.
Although Panasonic remains a major supporter of plasma TV technology, particularly in larger (50-inch plus) screen sizes, the manufacturer also offers LCD TVs to round out the VIERA HDTV line, in screen sizes of 42 inches and below. Each one (except the TC-L22X2) features an IPS Panel, for a 178-degree viewing angle and better, brighter images. Another standard perk is the VIERA Image Viewer, so owners can view their digital still images on the big screen simply by inserting their camera's SD card into a slot on the TV. There's also VIERA Link, for syncing compatible A/V components under one remote control.
The TC-L42U25 is a bit of an orphan, without a series to call its own. This 42-incher boasts a 1080p image, as well as 120Hz Motion Picture Pro 4 and 24p Smooth film technology, three HDMI connections and a PC input.
Back to the series selection, the U22 units come in three sizes, each with a 1080p image and 60 Hz refresh rate. Like the U25 model, each U22 TV includes three HDMI connections and a PC input.
All three models under the X2 Series feature a 720p image and the Universal Dock for iPod. That dock is new and improved, designed to work better with the iPhone and iPod touch. Other features include three HDMI connections and a PC input. As mentioned before, that 22-incher is the only one in the 2010 LCD line not to get an IPS Panel. However, the 22- and 32-inch models each have a Clean Touch bezel, which means less fingerprint marks are left behind after you're done hugging the TV.
Last in the 2010 line is the C22 Series. Two sizes each have a 720p image, as well as two HDMI inputs and a PC input.
Samsung may have invented the whole LED TV sub-category last year with a massive marketing blitz, but this doesn't mean they're ignoring the traditional LCD TV market. Quite the opposite. Samsung is offering eight new LCD TV series this year, with many enhancements to picture quality and feature sets. They're even offering one model that's 3D-ready.
The 750 Series is the one getting the 3D goodies. Aside from displaying native 3D content, it can also upscale 2D to 3D in real time. Right now, there's only one model announced for the 750 Series. However, it has plenty of other features, including Real 240Hz technology, and an Ultra Clear panel, which promises enhanced picture quality over its predecessors. Also on board is "Samsung Apps" - a wealth of web widgets designed to pull in all manner of internet-based content to your TV including Pandora, Netflix, YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. Wired networking is standard with 802.11n WiFi available via an optional USB/WiFi dongle.
The 650 Series doesn't have 3D, but does have the Ultra Clear panel feature and a refresh rate of 120Hz. Each unit can tap into Samsung's Internet@TV (including Samsung Apps) for instant access to Netflix, Pandora, Twitter, VUDU and other on-demand entertainment. If you want to add in content from your home computer or other Samsung devices, Allshare adds wireless connectivity and multimedia sharing across connected home devices. Wireless networking is available via an optional USB/WiFi dongle. Also, so the outside looks just as pretty as what's on screen, Samsung has incorporated its Touch of Color design into the frame and stand.
A total of four models in the 630 Series each feature a 1080p image and the Touch of Color design. Other features include Auto Motion Plus 120Hz technology, Anynet+ support (HDMI-CEC), four HDMI connections, and a PC input.
Samsung hasn't released much information on the 560 Series. Right now, we just know that one 40-inch unit is coming in June. We know a little more about 550 Series, which has four 1080p models with the Touch of Color design, Allshare capabilities, and a Game Mode.
Like the other models, the 530 Series features a 1080p image on all five sizes. Other features include Wide Color Enhancer technology, Anynet+ support, three HDMI inputs, and a ConnectShare input, which allows you to hook up a thumb drive or digital camera.
Like the 530s, the 450 Series includes Wide Color Enhancer technology, Anynet+ support and ConnectShare. However, each of the four smaller sizes displays a 720p image. The two larger sizes feature three HDMI connections, while the 19- and 22-inch models have two.
Samsung's 350 Series also features four smaller units, each with a 720p picture. Each has Wide Color Enhancer and ConnectShare, as well as a Game Mode, one USB port and a PC input. The two larger sizes feature two HDMI inputs, while the 19- and 22-inch models have just one.
Sharp AQUOS LCDs come in a variety of sizes for 2010. The largest is the 60-inch LC-60E88UN. This big boy boasts Sharp's X-Gen Panel, which promises a nice 1080p image using UV2A technology and 10-bit processing. Other features include a 240Hz refresh rate, an RS-232C input, four HDMI connections and a PC input. Unfortunately, Sharp has yet to announce a price or release date for this model.
Next up is the D78 Series, which features a 1080p image and Sharp's own Fine Motion Enhanced technology for that 120Hz refresh rate. One nifty perk is Optical Picture Control (OPC), which adjusts the TV's brightness based on room lighting. Other features include HDMI and component inputs and a dedicated PC input.
The D68 Series is similar to the D78 Series, except without the Fine Motion Enhanced technology. We're also not sure about the refresh rate, since the info has not been confirmed yet.
For something a little smaller, Sharp has two additional series that should fit the bill -- as well the space. They have not confirmed pricing on any of the smaller models yet, but we do have some product details. The DV28 Series makes the most of any space, thanks to a side-loading DVD player and two HDMI inputs. Also, if you decide to take a break, the OPC ambient light sensor can send any of these four models into a power-saving mode.
The SB28 Series doesn't have the DVD, but has a PC input and two HDMI jacks, which should allow for plenty of options on that smaller set. The Spectral Contrast Engine D (Dark) promises the best blacks and bright colors, which should be a nice change for your kitchen, bedroom, or yes, dorm room.
While Sony is saving 3D for its LED line, they are offering a slew of LCDs this year, for all budgets and "geek" levels.
All five of models in the BRAVIA KDL-EX500 Series feature a full HD 1080p image, the Motionflow 120Hz refresh rate, and the BRAVIA Engine 2 digital processor. An Ambient Sensor automatically adjusts the picture color based on a room's lighting. Also, BRAVIA Sync brings compatible devices under one remote. That could be a lot of devices, too, since EX500 HDTVs pack seven HD inputs (four HDMI each).
Two additional models can be found in the BRAVIA KDL-EX40B Series. Those LCDs have the 1080p image, but bump the processing up a bit with the BRAVIA Engine 3 processor. Of course, the big hook on these units is that each one comes with a built-in Blu-ray player. If you burn through your high-def disc collection and need some additional entertainment, each one can also access BRAVIA Internet Video and BRAVIA Internet Widgets, which includes content from Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, YouTube, Slacker, Pandora, NPR, Sony Pictures, Sony Music, and other providers. Other features include the Ambient Sensor, an Ethernet input and USB and DLNA connections for photo, music, and video playback.
Another three LCDs in the BRAVIA KDL-EX400 Series all have a 1080p image, the Ambient Sensor and BRAVIA Sync support. These models omit the on-demand content features, and drop the processor down to the BRAVIA Engine 2.
The two models in the BRAVIA KDL-EX308 Series both deliver a 720p image. However, these LCDs each have the BRAVIA Engine 3 and BRAVIA Sync support. Each one also supports Wi-Fi networking, with an included USB adapter. That could come in handy for accessing BRAVIA Internet Video and BRAVIA Internet Widgets, which are standard on both units.
Finally, the BRAVIA KDL-BX300 Series also offers the 720p resolution, but drops the processing down to the BRAVIA Engine 2. There's no on-demand content, but each of the two models does offer BRAVIA Sync support.
Toshiba 
The G300 Series is designed for sports and action-film fans.
Each of the four series in Toshiba's 2010 LCD line boasts the new Horizon design. That translates into a more modern look, with a slim, tapered bezel and front-panel gradation. A few common highlights include photo frame features, a Gaming Mode and DynaLight, which can monitor and adjust the brightness of your content for a more realistic image.
If you like action, the G300 Series could be your best bet. Designed for sports and action-film fans, these sets boast ClearFrame 120Hz technology to keep up with the content, making moving images crisp and clear.
There's no word on the refresh rate for the E200 Series. However, these three models also feature a 1080p image, as well as four HDMI inputs with InstaPort, a PC input, and REGZA-LINK.
The C100 Series drops the resolution down to 720p, but still includes the Horizon design, as well as photo frame capabilities. Both will be convenient in one of these three smaller sizes.
The CV100 Series is almost identical to the C100, but packs in one very important feature: a built-in DVD player. There's also one extra size, the 26-inch model.
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